The Los Angeles Chargers are grappling with injury challenges despite new leadership and a modern training facility. Following their 20-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team is now contending with injury concerns affecting four starters.
The primary worries lie on the offensive side. Quarterback Justin Herbert is nursing a high right ankle sprain and may not participate in practice this week. He exited the game in the third quarter and was later seen in a walking boot.
Backup Taylor Heinicke replaced Herbert, completing both of his passes for 24 yards. Despite being hampered by limited mobility, Herbert initially performed well, completing his first nine passes and ending the game with 12 completions on 18 attempts for 125 yards and a touchdown.
Coach Jim Harbaugh provided an update on Monday, stating that follow-up X-rays on Herbert’s ankle came back negative, but an MRI may be conducted in the coming days.
If Herbert is cleared to play, he will be without both starting offensive tackles. Rookie right tackle Joe Alt is expected to be sidelined for several weeks due to a sprained MCL sustained late in the game, even though he played all 46 offensive snaps. Meanwhile, left tackle Rashaun Slater suffered a strained pectoral muscle in the first half; he was taped up but could not continue in the second half.
When asked about Alt and Slater’s statuses, Harbaugh said he had no new information but would provide updates by Wednesday. Additionally, edge rusher Joey Bosa aggravated a hip injury on the first drive and did not return, having already been managing a back issue earlier this month.
Harbaugh mentioned that if Heinicke or Easton Stick needs to step in for Herbert, the game plan would need to adapt. He praised Heinicke’s performance, noting that he made smart decisions and demonstrated a solid understanding of the plays.
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